Respirator

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure relates generally to respirators where inhaled air and exhaled air are separated into different channels to permit a user to always inhale fresh air. The respirators described herein can filter inhaled air, and optionally exhaled air.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of International Patent Application Serial No. PCT/US2021/022592, filed on Mar. 16, 2021, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/990,279, filed on Mar. 16, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/198,865, filed on Nov. 18, 2020, the disclosure of each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to respirators with separate channels for inhaled air and exhaled air.

BACKGROUND

Today, three types of respirators are used as Respiratory Protective Devices (RPD) for respiratory organs: (1) a first type has an exhalation valve, and replaceable filtering elements (cartridges) that are installed in a housing made of plastic and silicone (reusable); (2) a second type has an exhalation valve and a filter housing made of filter material; and (3) a third type has a filter housing made of filter material without an exhalation valve, and inhalation and exhalation are filtered by the respirator housing.

There are a few disadvantages associated with these respirators. One disadvantage is that the under-mask space is closed, which forms the volumetric dead zone during breathing. This leads to an increased content of carbon dioxide in the inhaled air, increase in air humidity and temperature. As a result, increased fatigue, sweating, irritation of the facial skin. Another disadvantage is that a shared breathing air volume is created for the nose and mouth, which makes the use of respirators uncomfortable even in a state of calm. The coronavirus pandemic has exacerbated the disadvantages of these respirators. Accordingly, there is a need for a new type of respirators.

SUMMARY

In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a respirator, comprising: (i) a mouth aperture configured to be disposed about a mouth of a user; (ii) a nasal aperture configured to be disposed about a pair of nostrils of the user when the mouth aperture is disposed about the mouth of the user; (iii) a nasal fluid channel extending between the nasal aperture and a nasal inlet; (iv) an oral fluid channel extending from the mouth aperture to an oral outlet, such that fluidic communication between the nasal fluid channel and the oral fluid channel is prevented; (v) a nasal inhalation valve disposed within the nasal fluid channel between the nasal aperture and the nasal inlet and configured to transition between (a) an open configuration in which the nasal aperture is in fluidic communication with the nasal inlet to allow the user to inhale from the nasal inlet to the pair of nostrils, and (b) a closed configuration in which fluidic communication between the nasal aperture and the nasal inlet is prevented, the nasal inhalation valve configured to assume its open configuration in response to nasal inhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to nasal exhalation by the user; (vi) a nasal exhalation valve configured to transition between (a) an open configuration in which the nasal fluid channel is in fluidic communication with the oral fluid channel or an environment to allow the user to exhale from the pair of nostrils to the oral fluid channel or the environment, and (b) a closed configuration in which air is prevented from passing through the nasal exhalation valve, the nasal exhalation valve configured to assume its open configuration in response to nasal exhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to nasal inhalation by the user; and (vii) an oral exhalation valve disposed within the oral fluid channel between the mouth aperture and the oral outlet and configured to transition between (a) an open configuration in which the mouth aperture is in fluidic communication with the oral outlet, and (b) a closed configuration in which fluidic communication between the mouth aperture and the oral outlet is prevented.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides (i) a mouth aperture configured to be disposed about a mouth of a user; (ii) a nasal aperture configured to be disposed about a pair of nostrils of the user when the mouth aperture is disposed about the mouth of the user; (iii) a nasal fluid reservoir configured to be in fluidic communication with the pair of nostrils; (iv) an oral fluid reservoir configured to be in fluidic communication with the mouth of the user; (v) a nasal inhalation valve disposed between the nasal fluid reservoir and an inhalation channel that is in fluidic communication with an inhalation inlet, and configured to transition between (a) an open configuration in which the nasal fluid reservoir is in fluidic communication with the inhalation channel, and (b) a closed configuration in which fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir and the inhalation channel is prevented; (vi) a nasal exhalation valve disposed between the nasal fluid reservoir and an exhalation channel that is in fluidic communication with an exhalation outlet, and configured to transition between (a) an open configuration in which the nasal fluid reservoir is in fluidic communication with the exhalation channel, and (b) a closed configuration in which fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir and the exhalation channel is prevented; (vii) an oral inhalation valve disposed between the oral fluid reservoir and the inhalation channel, and configured to transition between (a) an open configuration in which the oral fluid reservoir is in fluidic communication with the inhalation channel, and (b) a closed configuration in which fluidic communication between the oral fluid reservoir and the inhalation channel is prevented; and (viii) an oral exhalation valve disposed between the oral fluid reservoir and the exhalation channel, and configured to transition between (a) an open configuration in which the oral fluid reservoir is in fluidic communication with the exhalation channel, and (b) a closed configuration in which fluidic communication between the oral fluid reservoir and the exhalation channel is prevented. The nasal inhalation valve is configured to assume (a) its open configuration in response to nasal inhalation by the user, and (b) its closed configuration in response to nasal exhalation by the user. The nasal exhalation valve is configured to assume (a) its open configuration in response to nasal exhalation by the user, and (b) its closed configuration in response to nasal inhalation by the user. The oral inhalation valve is configured to assume (a) its open configuration in response to oral inhalation by the user, and (b) its closed configuration in response to oral inhalation by the user. The oral exhalation valve is configured to assume (a) its open configuration in response to oral exhalation by the user, and (b) its closed configuration in response to oral inhalation by the user.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a respirator comprising: (i) a mouth aperture configured to be disposed about a mouth of a user; (ii) a nasal aperture configured to be disposed about a pair of nostrils of the user when the mouth aperture is disposed about the mouth of the user; (iii) a nasal fluid channel extending between the nasal aperture and a nasal inlet; and (iv) an inhalation filter disposed between the nasal inlet and the nostrils, the inhalation filter being configured to include a liquid medium.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a respirator 100, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 2A is a side view of a respirator 200, in accordance with an embodiment of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 2B is a top-down view of the respirator 200 of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2C is a front view of the respirator 200 of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2D is a rear view of the respirator 200 of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2E is a cross-sectional view of the respirator 200 of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 2F is an exploded view of the respirator 200 of FIG. 2A.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a respirator 300, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 4A is a front view of a respirator 400, in accordance with an embodiment of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 4B is a front view of the respirator 400 with an inhalation valve 442 disposed within the septum 440.

FIG. 4C is a side view of the respirator 400.

FIG. 4D is a rear view of the respirator 400.

FIG. 4E is an explosive view of the respirator 400.

FIG. 4F is a close-up view of the obturator shown in FIG. 4E.

FIGS. 4G-4I show open-type frame mechanisms for securing the respirator 400 on a user's head.

FIGS. 4J-4K depict a mechanism for opening the frame of the respirator 400.

FIGS. 5A-5C are illustrations showing three different view of a respirator 500, in accordance with an embodiment of FIG. 3 . FIG. 5A shows a front view, FIG. 5B a side view, and FIG. 5C a rear view. The respirator 500 can be secured to a user's head and face using any known mechanism, including but not limited to straps, mounts, and ear loops. The respirator 500 can be secured to a user's head and face using the head mounts described in FIG. 2A or FIG. 4D.

FIG. 5D is an illustration of the respirator 500 where the outer wall is made transparent.

FIG. 5E is an illustration showing the air flow when inhaling through the nose.

FIG. 5F is an illustration showing the air flow when exhaling through the mouth.

FIG. 5G is a cross-sectional view of a filter device with liquid media 590 a and 590 b, the right arrow shows the filtration pathway for inhalation, and the left arrow shows the filtration pathway for exhalation.

FIG. 5H is an illustration showing a filter device with a roll filter.

FIG. 5I is an illustration of a roll filter.

FIGS. 6A-6C are illustrations showing three different view of an industrial respirator 600, in accordance with an embodiment. FIG. 6A shows a front view, FIG. 6B a side view, and FIG. 6C a rear view.

FIG. 6D is an illustration of the respirator 600 where the outer wall is made transparent.

FIG. 6E is an illustration of a filter with liquid medium 690.

FIG. 6F is a cross-sectional view of the filter shown in FIG. 6A. The arrow shows the filtration pathway for inhalation.

FIG. 6G is an illustration showing an inhalation filter with a filter cartridge.

FIG. 7A is an illustration of a respirator having roll filters as inhalation filters.

FIGS. 7B and 7C are an illustration of a roll filter. The arrows show the directions of air flow.

FIG. 8A is an illustration of a respirator having droplet separators as inhalation filters.

FIG. 8B is an illustration of a droplet separator suitable for removing large aerosol particles that have high adhesion (e.g., a saliva particle or a sputum particle).

FIG. 8C is an illustration of the air flow in the droplet separator of FIG. 8B. The arrows indicate the air flow direction.

FIG. 9A is a front view of a respirator 900, in accordance with an embodiment of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 9B is a rear view of the respirator 900.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a respirator 1000, in accordance with an embodiment of FIG. 1 .

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating a respirator 1100, in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 12A is a front view of a respirator 1200, in accordance with an embodiment of FIG. 11

FIG. 12B is a rear view of the respirator 1200.

FIGS. 13A-13B are schematic diagrams showing an umbrella one-way valve, where the valve is closed (FIG. 13A) and open (FIG. 13B).

FIG. 14A is a front view of a hydro-respirator 1400.

FIG. 14B shows an obturator 1428 of the hydro-respirator 1400.

FIGS. 15A-15B show a perspective view (FIG. 15A) and a top-down view (FIG. 15B) of a hydro-respirator 1500. FIG. 15B shows an obturator 1528 of the hydro-respirator 1500.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure describes embodiments of respirators with separate channels for inhaled air and exhaled air, thereby providing a user with better breathing experience than existing respirators. As used herein, the term “channel” means three-dimensional space enclosed by a closed surface. A channel can have a regular or irregular shape. The term “channel” does not mean that it must be elongated. In some implementations, a channel is elongated. In some implementations, a channel is not elongated. For example, a channel can be a chamber in some implementations.

As shown in FIG. 1 , the respirator 100 comprises: (a) a nasal aperture 120, (b) a mouth aperture 130, (c) a nasal fluid channel 150, (d) a nasal inlet 152, (e) a nasal inhalation valve 154, (f) a nasal exhalation valve 156, (g) an oral fluid channel 160, (h) an oral outlet 162, and (i) an oral exhalation valve 164.

The nasal aperture 120 is configured to be disposed about a pair of nostrils of a user. The mouth aperture 130 is configured to be disposed about a mouth of the user when the nasal aperture 120 is disposed about the nostrils of the user. The respirator 100 can further comprise an obturator (not shown) disposed on the circumferences of the nasal aperture 120 and the mouth aperture 130. The obturator is configured to form a seal around the nostrils and the mouth so that fluidic communication between the nasal fluid channel 150 and the oral fluid channel 160 is prevented unless the nasal exhalation valve 156 is in an open configuration.

The nasal fluid channel 150 extends between the nasal aperture 120 and the nasal inlet 152. The oral fluid channel 160 extends between the mouth aperture 130 and the oral outlet 162. The nasal inhalation valve 154 is disposed within the nasal fluid channel 150 between the nasal aperture 120 and the nasal inlet 152. The nasal inhalation valve 154 is configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the nasal aperture 120 is in fluidic communication with the nasal inlet 152, thereby allowing the user to inhale from the nasal inlet 152 to the pair of nostrils. In the closed configuration, the fluidic communication between the nasal aperture 120 and the nasal inlet 152 is prevented. The nasal inhalation valve 154 is configured to assume its open configuration in response to nasal inhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to nasal exhalation by the user.

The respirator 100 can optionally comprises an inhalation filter 182 disposed between the nasal inlet 152 and the nasal inhalation valve 154. In some implementations, the inhalation filter 182 is disposed within the nasal fluid channel 150. In some implementations, the inhalation filter 182 is disposed at a distal end of the nasal fluid channel 150. The inhalation filter 182 is configured to filter the air entering the nasal inlet 152 (e.g., to remove pathogens, particulates, or otherwise anything undesirable to the user).

The nasal exhalation valve 156 is configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the nasal fluid channel 150 is in fluidic communication with the oral fluid channel 160 or an environment, thereby allowing the user to exhale from the pair of nostrils to the oral fluid channel 160 or the environment, or inhale with the mouth from the nasal fluid channel 150 (and by extension from the nasal fluid channel 150) to the oral fluid channel 160. In the closed configuration, air is prevented from passing through the nasal exhalation valve 156. For example, in some implementations, in the closed configuration, fluidic communication between the nasal fluid channel 150 and the oral fluid channel 160 is prevented. In some implementations, the nasal exhalation valve 156 permits nasal exhalation to combine with mouth exhalation.

The oral exhalation valve 164 is disposed within the oral fluid channel 160 between the mouth aperture 130 and the oral outlet 162. The oral exhalation valve 164 is s configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the mouth aperture 130 is in fluidic communication with the oral outlet 162. In the closed configuration, the fluidic communication between the mouth aperture 130 and the oral outlet 162 is prevented.

The respirator 100 can optionally comprise an exhalation filter 184 disposed between the oral outlet 162 and the oral exhalation valve 164. In some implementations, the exhalation filter 184 is disposed within the oral fluid channel 160. In some implementations, the exhalation filter 184 is disposed at a distal end of the oral fluid channel 160. The exhalation filter 182 is configured to filter the air exiting the oral exhalation valve 164 (e.g., to remove pathogens, particulates, or otherwise anything undesirable to the environment around the user).

The respirator 100 can optionally comprise a septum 140 disposed between the nasal fluid channel 150 and the oral fluid channel 160. The septum 140 is configured to prevent fluidic communication between the nasal fluid channel 150 and the oral fluid channel 160. In some embodiments, the septum 140 can include an obturator configured to form a seal on the face of the user to prevent fluidic communication between the nasal fluid channel 150 and the oral fluid channel 160. The nasal exhalation valve 156 can be disposed within the septum 140. While FIG. 1 only shows one optional septum, some implementations of the respirator 100 can have two, three, four, or more septa.

In some implementations, the respirator 100 further comprises a housing having an inner layer and an outer layer, and a volume defined therebetween. The housing defines the nasal inlet 152 and the oral outlet 162. The inner layer defines the nasal aperture 120 and the mouth aperture 130. The volume includes the nasal fluid channel 150 and the oral fluid channel 160, and the septum 140 is disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer to divide the volume into the nasal fluid channel 150 and the oral fluid channel 160.

In some implementations, the nasal fluid channel 150 and the oral fluid channel 160 are not divided from a common volume by a septum. Rather, each of the nasal fluid channel 150 and the oral fluid channel 160 has its independent housing defining a volume. In such implementations, the nasal aperture 120 and the mouth aperture are defined by an aperture housing 110; and the nasal fluid channel 150 and the oral fluid channel 160 can be connected to each other by the aperture housing 110, where the nasal exhalation valve 156 is disposed within the aperture housing 110 and provides fluidic communication between the nasal fluid channel 150 and the oral fluid channel 160. Further, in some such implementations, the nasal inhalation valve 154, the nasal exhalation valve 156, and the oral exhalation valve 164 are disposed within the aperture housing 110, as shown optionally in broken lines in FIG. 1 . Alternatively, in some implementations, there is no fluidic communication between the nasal fluid channel 150 and the oral fluid channel 160, as the nasal exhalation valve 156 is configured to permit the user to exhale into the environment, and the respirator 100 can further comprise an oral exhalation valve configured to permit the user to exhale into the environment.

Due to its configuration, the respirator 100 permits nasal and/or oral inhalation, and nasal and/or mouth exhalation. While FIG. 1 only shows one nasal inhalation valve 154, the respirator 100 can further include one additional nasal inhalation valve, so that there is one nasal inhalation valve on each side of the nose. Similarly, while FIG. 1 only shows one oral exhalation valve 164, the respirator 100 can further include one additional oral exhalation valve, so that there is one oral exhalation valve on each side of the mouth.

In some implementations, the respirator 100 can further comprise a head mount configured to be disposed about a parietal part of the user's head and thus to provide further mechanical stability for the respirator 100. The head mount can optionally be adjustable to accommodate the different head sizes of users.

In some implementations, the respirator 100 can further comprise a coupling member (e.g., a strap) configured disposed about the cheeks of a user. In some implementations, the coupling member can optionally be adjustable to accommodate the different head sizes of users.

The inhalation filter 182 and exhalation filter 184 can operate accordingly a variety of filtering mechanisms. In some implementations, the inhalation filter 182 or the exhalation filter 184 is configured to include a liquid medium. In some implementations, the liquid medium is water or an antiseptic solution. Filtration can be achieved through a multi-stage process using various fluid properties. For example, large particles (e.g., dust, mucus, or saliva) can be removed by creating a vortex air that flows in the volume of the liquid, while finer filtering can be achieved through bubbling process when the air stream passes through a layer of unstable foam. In some implementations, the liquid medium can be replaced with a granular substance or a granular mixture, for example, activated carbon. In some embodiments, the inhalation filter 182 or the exhalation filter 184 is configured to include a roll filter. In some implementations, the inhalation filter 152 or the exhalation filter 184 is configured to include a mesh. The inhalation filter 182 or the exhalation filter 184 can be positioned horizontally or vertically, or somewhere therebetween.

Generally, the operating principle of the respirator 100 can be described as follows. When inhaling through the nose, under the influence of negative relative pressure, the nasal inhalation valve 154 opens and air enters from the nasal fluid channel 150 into the nasal aperture 120. In some implementations, the air previously passes through an inhalation filter from the space external to the respirator 100. When the user exhales through the nose, under the influence of positive relative pressure, the nasal inhalation valve 154 is closed, and the nasal exhalation valve 156 opens, and air enters the oral fluid channel 160. Under the influence of positive relative pressure, the oral exhalation valve 164 opens, and the exhaled air exits the respirator 100 through the oral outlet 162 and optionally after passing through an exhalation filter.

The outer layer of the housing is transparent, opaque, or a combination thereof (e.g., a portion of the outer layer facing the user's mouth may be transparent to aid in communication between the user and others, while other portions of the outer layer may be less transparent or opaque). The outer layer of the housing can be made of any suitable material, e.g., plastic, silicone, or the like.

The housing can be made, partially or whole, from breathable (filtering) material. In some implementations, the respirator 100 is for single use. For example, the whole housing can be made of a spunbond meltblown spunbond (SMS) material.

In some implementations, the respirator 100 is reusable. For example, a portion of the housing (e.g., the obturator) can be made of silicone and/or thermoplastic elastomer; another portion of the housing can be made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic; and valves can be made of silicone or rubber.

In some implementations, only the obturator and the coupling member (e.g., a strap) are configured to be in contact with the skin when the user wears the respirator 100. In some implementations where additional components are in contact with the skin, these additional components can be made of an air permeable material.

Regardless of whether the respirator 100 is for single use or reusable, in some implementations separate components are manufactured separately and then assembled into the respirator 100.

FIGS. 2A-2E show different views of a respirator 200 that comprises the features of the respirator 100 shown in FIG. 1 , according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2A, the respirator 200 has a front-facing portion 270, a rear-facing portion 280, and a head mount 202 (in some embodiments a respirator may not include the head mount). The front-facing portion 270 is coupled to the rear-facing portion 280. The front-facing portion 270 is configured to cover the lower half of a user's face so that a nasal aperture is disposed about the nostrils of the user and a mouth aperture is disposed about the mouth of the user. The rear-facing portion 280 is configured to be disposed about the occipital part of the user's head. The head mount 202 is coupled to the rear-facing portion 280. The head mount 202 is configured to be disposed about a parietal part of the user's head and thus to provide further mechanical stability for the respirator 200.

As shown in FIG. 2C, the front-facing portion 270 of the respirator 200 comprises a nasal aperture 220, a mouth aperture 230, a septum 240, a nasal fluid channel 250, an oral fluid channel 260, two nasal inhalation valves 254, a nasal exhalation valve 256, two oral exhalation valves 264, an obturator 266, a coupling member 204, and a rear-facing portion 280.

Without reiterating the features discussed above and for the sake of brevity, the positions and functions of the nasal aperture 220, the mouth aperture 230, the septum 240, the nasal fluid channel 250, the oral fluid channel 260, the nasal inhalation valves 254, the nasal exhalation valve 256, and the oral exhalation valves 264 are the same or substantially the same as those described for the respective counterparts in the respirator 100 of FIG. 1 .

The obturator 266 is disposed on the circumferences of the nasal aperture 220 and the mouth aperture 230. The obturator 266 is configured to form a seal around the nostrils and the mouth so that fluidic communication between the nasal fluid channel 250 and the oral fluid channel 260 is prevented unless the nasal exhalation valve 256 is in an open configuration.

The coupling member 204 is configured to connect the front-facing portion and the rear-facing portion 280. In some embodiments, the coupling member 204 is flexible. The coupling member 204 can optionally be adjustable to accommodate the different head sizes of users

The details of the rear-facing portion 280 can be seen in FIG. 2D. Specifically, the rear-facing portion 280 comprises a housing, an inhalation filter 282, and an exhalation filter 284. The housing is configured to enclose the inhalation filter 282 and the exhalation filter 284. The inhalation filter 282 is configured to filter the inhaled air, while the exhalation filter 284 is configured to filter the exhaled air.

As shown in FIG. 2D, each of the septum 240, the nasal fluid channel 250, and the oral fluid channel 260 extends from the front-facing portion 270 to the rear-facing portion 280. The nasal inlet 252 is shown as a series of holes. The oral outlet 262 is shown as a series of holes.

FIG. 2E is a cross-sectional view of the respirator 200.

FIG. 2F is an explosive view of the respirator 200. The front-facing portion 270 is coupled to a filter block 286 through the coupling member 204. A size adjuster 206 disposed on a distal end of the filter block 286 is configured to adjust the distance that the coupling member 204 can slide in so as to adjust the fitting of the front-facing portion 270 on a user's face.

The filter block 286 is configured to provide: (a) a volume for airtight installation of the filters 282 and 284; and (b) an airtight fluidic communication with the front-facing portion 270. When the filter block 286 is connected to the front-facing portion 270, a closed system is created to permit airtight flow of inhaled filtered air and exhaled filtered air for the nasal fluid channel and oral fluid channel respectively.

The inhalation filter 282 is disposed between an inhalation seal cover 281 and the filter block 286. The exhalation filter 284 is disposed between an exhalation seal cover 283 and the filter block 286. The inhalation seal cover 281 is configured to: (a) achieve an airtight press over the contour of the inhalation filter 282 to the filter block 286; and (b) provide a protective casing for the inhalation filter 282. The exhalation seal cover 283 is configured to: (a) achieve an airtight press over the contour of the exhalation filter 284 to the filter block 286; and (b) provide a protective casing for the exhalation filter 284.

The respirator 200 further comprises an attachment member 208 and an occipital support 209. When a user wears the respirator 200, the attachment member 208 is disposed on the crown of the user's head, and the occipital support 209 is disposed on the occipital part of the user's head. Both the attachment member 208 and the occipital support 209 are configured to provide mechanical stability when the user is wearing the respirator 200.

FIGS. 9A-9B show front and rear views of a respirator 900 that comprises the features of the respirator 100 shown in FIG. 1 , according to an embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 9A-9B, the respirator 900 comprises an aperture housing 910, a nasal aperture 920, a mouth aperture 930, a nasal fluid channel 950, two nasal inhalation valves 954, two nasal exhalation valves 956, an oral fluid channel 960, two oral exhalation valves 964, an inhalation filter 982, and an exhalation filter 984. Note that the inhalation filter 982 and the exhalation filter 984 are installed in filter blocks.

The aperture housing 910 defines the nasal aperture 920 and the mouth aperture 930. Each of the nasal fluid channel 950 and the oral fluid channel 960 has its own housing defining a volume. The nasal fluid channel 950 is connected to the oral fluid channel 960 by the aperture housing 910.

The nasal inhalation valves 954 are disposed about the nose such that there is one nasal inhalation valve 954 on each side of the nose. The nasal exhalation valves 956 are disposed below the nostrils such that there is one nasal exhalation valve 956 below each nostril. The oral exhalation valves 964 is disposed about the mouth such that there is one oral exhalation valve 964 on each side of the mouth.

FIG. 10 show a perspective view of a respirator 1000 that comprises the features of the respirator 100 shown in FIG. 1 , according to an embodiment. The respirator 1000 comprises a nasal aperture 1020, a mouth aperture 1030, a nasal fluid channel 1050, a nasal exhalation valve having a nasal portion 1056 a and an oral portion 1056 b, an oral fluid channel 1060, a nasal inhalation valve 1054, and an oral exhalation valve 1064, a nasal obturator 1066 a, and a mouth obturator 1066 b.

The nasal portion 1056 a and oral portion 1056 b of the nasal exhalation valve have the same flow direction. They are connected together to form the nasal exhalation valve that permits the air to be exhaled from the nostrils to the oral fluid channel 1060. The nasal portion 1056 a and oral portion 1056 b can be disconnected. When they are disconnected, the nasal portion 1056 a is configured to permit the user to exhale into the surrounding environment. For example, if the user decides to ingest a substance (e.g., food, drink, or a pill), the user can disconnect the nasal portion 1056 a and oral portion 1056 b by lowering the aperture housing for the mouth to ingest the substance, while being partially protected by inhalation through the nose and exhalation into the surrounding environment.

The nasal obturator 1066 a is disposed on the circumferences of the nasal aperture 1020. The nasal obturator 1066 a is configured to form a seal around the nostrils. The mouth obturator 1066 b is disposed on the circumferences of the mouth aperture 1030. The mouth obturator 1066 b is configured to form a seal around the mouth.

FIG. 3 shows an embodiment of a respirator 300 where inhalation can be done through the nose or mouth, each through a separate valve, and exhalation can also be done through the nose or mouth, each through a separate value. The inhaled air shares a common pathway, and the exhaled air shares a common pathway.

The respirator 300 comprises: (a) a housing having an inner layer and an outer layer defining volume 310 therebetween, (b) a nasal aperture 320, (c) a nasal inhalation valve 322, (d) a nasal fluid reservoir 324, (e) a nasal exhalation valve 326, (f) a mouth aperture 330, (g) an oral inhalation valve 332, (h) an oral fluid reservoir 334, (i) an oral exhalation valve 336, (j) a septum 340, (k) an inhalation channel 350, (l) an inhalation inlet 352, (m) an exhalation channel 360, and (n) an exhalation outlet 362.

The nasal aperture 320 is defined by the inner layer and configured to be disposed about a pair of nostrils of a user. The mouth aperture 330 is defined by the inner layer and configured to be disposed about a mouth of the user when the nasal aperture 320 is disposed about the nostrils of the user.

The respirator 300 can further comprise an obturator (not shown) disposed on the circumferences of the nasal aperture 120 and the mouth aperture 130. The obturator is configured to form a seal around the nostrils and the mouth so that fluidic communication between the inhalation channel 350 and the exhalation channel 360 is prevented unless at least one of the inhalation or exhalation valves (322, 326, 332, 336) is in an open configuration.

The septum 340 is disposed between the inner layer and the outer layer and divides the volume 310 into the nasal fluid reservoir 324 and the oral fluid reservoir 334. The septum 340 is configured to prevent fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir 324 and the oral fluid reservoir 334. The nasal fluid reservoir 324 is configured to be in fluidic communication with the pair of nostrils. The oral fluid reservoir 334 is configured to be in fluidic communication with the mouth of the user. In some embodiments, the septum 340 can include an obturator configured to form a seal on the face of the user to prevent fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir 324 and the mouth fluid reservoir 334.

The nasal inhalation valve 322 is disposed between the nasal fluid reservoir 324 and the inhalation channel 350 that is in fluidic communication with the inhalation inlet 352. The nasal inhalation valve 322 is configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the nasal fluid reservoir 324 is in fluidic communication with the inhalation channel 350, and by extension, the inhalation inlet 352. In the closed configuration, fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir 324 and the inhalation channel 350, and by extension, the inhalation inlet 352, is prevented. The nasal inhalation valve 322 is configured to assume its open configuration in response to nasal inhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to nasal exhalation by the user, as described in more detail below.

The nasal exhalation valve 326 is disposed between the nasal fluid reservoir 324 and the exhalation channel 360 that is in fluidic communication with the exhalation outlet 362. The nasal exhalation valve 326 is configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the nasal fluid reservoir 324 is in fluidic communication with the exhalation channel 360, and by extension the exhalation outlet 362. In the closed configuration, fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir 324 and the exhalation channel 360, and by extension, the exhalation outlet 362, is prevented. The nasal exhalation valve 326 is configured to assume its open configuration in response to nasal exhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to nasal inhalation by the user.

The oral inhalation valve 332 is disposed between the oral fluid reservoir 334 and the inhalation channel 350 that is in fluidic communication with the inhalation inlet 352. The oral inhalation valve 332 is configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the oral fluid reservoir 334 is in fluidic communication with the inhalation channel 350, and by extension, the inhalation inlet 352. In the closed configuration, fluidic communication between the oral fluid reservoir 334 and the inhalation channel 350, and by extension, the inhalation inlet 352, is prevented. The oral inhalation valve 332 is configured to assume its open configuration in response to oral inhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to oral exhalation by the user.

The oral exhalation valve 336 is disposed between the oral fluid reservoir 334 and the exhalation channel 360 that is in fluidic communication with the exhalation outlet 362. The oral exhalation valve 336 is configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the oral fluid reservoir 334 is in fluidic communication with the exhalation channel 360, and by extension, the exhalation outlet 362. In the closed configuration, fluidic communication between the oral fluid reservoir 334 and the exhalation channel 360, and by extension, the exhalation outlet 362, is prevented. The oral exhalation valve 336 is configured to assume its open configuration in response to oral exhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to oral inhalation by the user.

In some implementations, the respirator 300 further comprises an inhalation filter 370 disposed between (1) the inhalation inlet 352 and (2) the nasal inhalation valve 322 and the oral inhalation valve 332. In some implementations, the inhalation filter 370 is disposed within the inhalation channel 350. In some implementations, the inhalation filter 370 is disposed at a distal end of the inhalation channel 350. The inhalation filter 370 is configured to filter the air entering the inhalation inlet 352 (e.g., to remove pathogens, particulates, or otherwise anything undesirable to the user).

The respirator 300 can optionally comprise an exhalation filter 374 disposed between (1) the exhalation outlet 362 and (2) the nasal exhalation valve 326 and the oral exhalation valve 336. In some implementations, the exhalation filter 374 is disposed within the exhalation channel 360. In some implementations, the exhalation filter 374 is disposed at a distal end of the exhalation channel 360. The exhalation filter 374 is configured to filter the air exiting the nasal exhalation valve 326 or the oral exhalation valve 336 (e.g., to remove pathogens, particulates, or otherwise anything undesirable to the environment around the user).

The inhalation filter 370 and exhalation filter 374 can operate accordingly a variety of filtering mechanisms. In some implementations, the inhalation filter 370 or the exhalation filter 374 is configured to include a liquid medium. In some implementations, the liquid medium is water or an antiseptic solution. Filtration can be achieved through a multi-stage process using various fluid properties. For example, large particles (e.g., dust, mucus, or saliva) can be removed by creating a vortex air that flows in the volume of the liquid, while finer filtering can be achieved through bubbling process when the air stream passes through a layer of unstable foam. In some implementations, the liquid medium can be replaced with a granular substance or a granular mixture, for example, activated carbon. In some implementations, the inhalation filter 370 or the exhalation filter 374 is configured to include a roll filter. In some implementations, the inhalation filter 370 or the exhalation filter 374 is configured to include a mesh. The inhalation filter 370 or the exhalation filter 374 can be positioned horizontally or vertically, or somewhere therebetween.

In some implementations, the respirator 300 further comprises a septal valve 342 disposed within the septum and configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the nasal fluid reservoir 324 is in fluidic communication with the oral fluid reservoir 334. In the closed configuration, fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir 324 and the oral fluid reservoir 334 is prevented. The septal valve 342 is configured to assume its open configuration in response to oral inhalation or nasal exhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to oral exhalation or nasal inhalation by the user.

While FIG. 3 only shows one septum, some implementations of the respirator 300 can have two, three, four, or more septa. While FIG. 3 only shows one optional septal valve, some implementations of the respirator 300 can have two, three, four, or more septal valves. While FIG. 3 only shows one nasal inhalation valve, some implementations of the respirator 300 can have two, three, four, or more nasal inhalation valves. While FIG. 3 only shows one nasal exhalation valve, some implementations of the respirator 300 can have two, three, four, or more nasal exhalation valves. While FIG. 3 only shows one oral inhalation valve, some implementations of the respirator 300 can have two, three, four, or more oral inhalation valves. While FIG. 3 only shows one oral exhalation valve, some implementations of the respirator 300 can have two, three, four, or more oral exhalation valves.

Generally, the operating principle of the respirator 300 can be described as follows. When inhaling through the nose or mouth, under the influence of negative relative pressure, the nasal inhalation valve 322 or the oral inhalation valve 332 opens, and air enters from the inhalation channel 350 into the nasal fluid reservoir 324 or the oral fluid reservoir 334. The air previously passes through an optional inhalation filter (not shown) from the space external to the respirator 300. When the user exhales through the nose or mouth, under the influence of positive relative pressure, the nasal inhalation valve 322 or the oral inhalation valve 332 is closed, and the nasal exhalation valve 326 or the oral exhalation valve 336 opens, and air enters the exhalation channel 360. The exhaled air exits the respirator 300 through the outlet 362 and optionally after passing through an exhalation filter (not shown).

The outer layer of the housing is transparent, opaque, or a combination thereof (e.g., a portion of the outer layer facing the user's mouth may be transparent to aid in communication between the user and others, while other portions of the outer layer may be less transparent or opaque). The outer layer of the housing can be made of any suitable material, e.g., plastic, silicone, or the like.

The housing can be made, partially or whole, from breathable (filtering) material. In some implementations, the respirator 300 is for single use. For example, the whole housing can be made of a spunbond meltblown spunbond (SMS) material.

In some implementations, the respirator 300 is reusable. For example, a portion of the housing (e.g., the obturator) can be made of silicone and/or thermoplastic elastomer; another portion of the housing can be made of ABS plastic, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic; and valves can be made of silicone or rubber.

In some implementations, only the obturator and the coupling member (e.g., a strap) are configured to be in contact with the skin when the user wears the respirator 300. In some implementations where additional components are in contact with the skin, these additional components can be made of an air permeable material.

Regardless of whether the respirator 300 is for single use or reusable, in some implementations separate components are manufactured separately and then assembled into the respirator 300.

The respirator 400 of FIG. 4A has features consistent with the schematic diagram of FIG. 3 , according to an embodiment. The respirator 400 comprises a nasal aperture 420, a nasal fluid reservoir 424, a nasal inhalation valve 422, a nasal exhalation valve 426, an obturator 428, a mouth aperture 430, an oral fluid reservoir 434, an oral inhalation valve 432, an oral exhalation valve 436, a septum 440, an inhalation channel 450, an exhalation channel 460, an inhalation filter 470, an inspiratory filter unit 472, an exhalation filter 474, and an expiratory filter unit 476.

Without reiterating the features discussed above and for the sake of brevity, the positions and functions of the nasal aperture 420, the nasal fluid reservoir 424, the nasal inhalation valve 422, the nasal exhalation valve 426, the mouth aperture 430, the oral fluid reservoir 434, the oral inhalation valve 432, the oral exhalation valve 436, the septum 440, the inhalation channel 450, and the exhalation channel 460 are the same or substantially the same as those described for the respective counterparts in the respirator 300 of FIG. 3 .

The obturator 428 is disposed on the circumferences of the nasal aperture 420 and the mouth aperture. The obturator 428 is configured to form a seal around nostrils and the mouth so that fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir and the oral fluid reservoir is prevented.

The inhalation filter 470 is disposed between the inhalation inlet and the nasal inhalation valve 422. The inhalation filter 470 is configured to filter the inhaled air. The exhalation filter 474 is disposed between the nasal exhalation valve 426 and the exhalation outlet. The exhalation filter is configured to filter the exhaled air.

The inhalation inlet 452 is shown as a series of holes in FIG. 4D. The exhalation outlet 462 is shown as a series of holes in FIG. 4D.

FIG. 4E is an explosive view of the respirator 400. In this view, the physical relationships between the inhalation filter 470 and the inspiratory filter unit 472, and between the exhalation filter 474 and the expiratory filter unit 476 are more easily understood. The inhalation filter 470 is disposed between the inhalation seal cover 481 and the inspiratory filter unit 472. The exhalation filter 474 is disposed between the exhalation seal cover 483 and the expiratory filter unit 476.

The inspiratory filter unit 472 is configured to provide: (a) a volume for airtight installation of the inhalation filter 470; and (b) an airtight fluidic communication with the inhalation channel 450. When the inspiratory filter unit 472 is connected to the inhalation channel, a closed system is created to permit airtight flow of inhaled filtered air.

The inhalation seal cover 481 is configured to: (a) achieve an airtight press over the contour of the inhalation filter 470 to the inspiratory filter unit 472; and (b) provide a protective casing for the inhalation filter 470.

The expiratory filter unit 476 is configured to provide: (a) a volume for airtight installation of the exhalation filter 474; and (b) an airtight fluidic communication with the exhalation channel 460. When the expiratory filter unit 476 is connected to the exhalation channel, a closed system is created to permit airtight flow of exhaled filtered air.

The exhalation seal cover 483 is configured to: (a) achieve an airtight press over the contour of the exhalation filter 474 to the expiratory filter unit 476; and (b) provide a protective casing for the exhalation filter 474.

In FIG. 4E, the first coupling member 404, the second coupling member 406, the occipital support 409, the aperture housing 410, and the obturator 428 are also shown. The first coupling member 404 is configured to lock the inspiratory filter unit 472 and the expiratory filter unit 476 together. The second coupling member 406 is configured to couple: (a) the inhalation channel 450 with the inspiratory filter unit 472; and (b) the exhalation channel 460 with the expiratory filter unit 476. The occipital support 409 is configured to be disposed on the occipital part of a user's head and provide mechanical stability when the user wears the respirator 400.

FIG. 4F is a close-up view of the obturator 428 shown in FIG. 4E. The obturator 428 is configured to: (a) be disposed on the circumferences of the nasal aperture and the mouth aperture; and (b) form a seal around the nostrils and the mouth.

FIG. 4B additionally comprises a second oral inhalation valve 442 as compared to the respirator in FIG. 4A. The second oral inhalation valve 442 is disposed within the septum 440. The second oral inhalation valve 442 is configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the oral fluid reservoir 434 is in fluidic communication with the nasal fluid reservoir 424, and by extension, the inhalation inlet (not shown). In the closed configuration, fluidic communication between the oral fluid reservoir 434 and the nasal fluid reservoir 424, and by extension, the inhalation inlet, is prevented. The second oral inhalation valve 442 is configured to assume its open configuration in response to oral inhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to oral exhalation by the user. The second oral inhalation valve 442 can thus increase the breathing capacity by at least twice. In some implementations, the opening pressure required for opening the second oral inhalation valve 442 is greater than that for the oral inhalation valve 432, thereby restricting the use of the second oral inhalation valve 442 to more intense oral inhalation, e.g., during exercising.

The respirator 400 can be secured to the head of a user through an open-type frame mechanism. For the convenience of putting on a respirator, each filter can be made of two or more parts, so that it can be opened. In this case, the attachment for the crown of the head can be made in the form of a ring or half ring or any appropriate form complimentary to user's head anatomy. The parts of each filter can be closed using any suitable mechanism, such as, for example, magnets, zip ties, glue, mechanical locks, snap fits, interference fits, hook and loop fasteners, etc. At the same time, each half of each filter has its own inhalation and exhalation filter (in the case of horizontal division of the internal cavity of the respirator frame). FIGS. 4G-4I show the open-type frame mechanisms. As shown in FIGS. 4I-4K, a coupling member (e.g., a button, a screw, etc.) 404 can be used to lock the inspiratory filter unit and the expiratory filter unit together. By removing the coupling member, the inspiratory filter unit and expiratory filter unit are de-coupled from each other, thereby permitting the user to remove the respirator.

FIGS. 5A-5F show a respirator 500 that does not have a rear-facing portion. The respirator 500 of has features consistent with the schematic diagram of FIG. 3 , according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5D, the respirator 500 comprises a nasal fluid reservoir 524, a nasal inhalation valve 522, a nasal exhalation valve 526, an obturator 528, an oral fluid reservoir 534, an oral inhalation valve 532, an oral exhalation valve 536, a septum 540, an inhalation channel 550, an exhalation channel 560, an inhalation filter 570, and an exhalation filter 574.

FIG. 5G shows an inhalation filter 570 and an exhalation filter 574 each having a liquid medium 590 a and 590 b respectively for filtration purposes. The inhalation filter 570 and exhalation filter 574 comprise structures that force the air to pass through the liquid medium 590 a and 590 b when the air passes from the inlet to the outlet. The inhalation filter 570 is shown on the right-hand side of FIG. 5G, where the arrow illustrates the filtration pathway as the air enters and exits the inhalation filter 570. The liquid medium 590 a is disposed on the bottom of the inhalation filter 570. As the inhaled air flows through the liquid medium 590 a, the inhaled air gets filtered. The exhalation filter 574 is shown on the left-hand side of FIG. 5G, wherein the arrow illustrates the filtration pathway as the air enters and exists the exhalation filter 574. The liquid medium 590 b is disposed on the bottom of the exhalation filter 574. As the exhaled air flows through the liquid medium 590 b, the exhaled air gets filtered.

If the filter housing is made of transparent materials, it will be possible to visually determine the degree of contamination of the liquid medium and promptly make a decision if washing and refueling with a fresh liquid medium are needed. In addition, a colorographic or numeric chart can be used to determine the rate of contamination of the filter and the remaining time of use, based on the transparency of the liquid.

In some embodiments, instead of a liquid medium, a roll filter can be used for either the inhalation filter, the exhalation filter, or both. For example, FIG. 5H is an illustration showing an inhalation filter 570 and an exhalation filter 574 each having a roll filter disposed therein. In the roll filter shown in FIGS. 5H and 5I, the air flow moves across the filter material. The filter material can be arranged horizontally rather than vertically, in some implementations. The respirator case itself can have multiple walls, forming a cavity in which the filter material is located.

In some embodiments, instead of a liquid medium, a granular substance or a granular mixture, for example activated carbon, can be used as a filter material.

There are conditions, when while using RPD's there's no need to filter the exhaled air, for example, when performing construction. At the same time, the filter capacity (i.e., the ability to accumulate and retain pollutants) should be significantly higher than that of a civilian hydro-respirator. As shown in the industrial respirator 600 of FIGS. 6A-6D, the inhaled air, through the nose and/or mouth, passes through an inhalation filter, and the exhaled air leaves freely, without filtration. The respirator 600 comprises the features of the respirator 100 shown in FIG. 1 except that the respirator 600 does not have an exhalation filter, according to an embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 6D, the respirator 600 comprises a nasal aperture 620, a mouth aperture 630, a septum 640, a nasal fluid channel 650, two nasal inhalation valves 654, a nasal exhalation valve 656, an oral exhalation valves 664, an obturator 666, a first coupling member 604 a, a second coupling member 604 b, and an inhalation filter 682.

The first coupling member 604 a connects the nasal fluid channel 650 with the second coupling member 604 b. The second coupling member 604 b is connected to the inhalation filter 682. In some embodiments, the first coupling member 604 a is a joint or a connector. In some embodiments, the second coupling member 604 b is a pipe.

FIGS. 6E-6F show the inhalation filter 682. Notably, the inlet for inhaled air is disposed at a predetermined angle relative to the ground. The liquid medium 690 is disposed on the bottom of the inhalation filter 682. As the inhaled air flows through the liquid medium 690, the inhaled air gets filtered.

When inhaling through the nose, under the action of negative relative pressure, the nasal inhalation valves 654 open, and air enters the inhalation filter 682, gets filtered, then enters the second coupling member 604 b, the first coupling member 604 a, the nasal fluid channel 650, and the nasal aperture 620. When inhaling through the mouth, in addition to the above process, the nasal exhalation valve 656 opens, and filtered air entered the mouth aperture 630.

When exhaling through the nose, under the influence of positive relative pressure, the nasal inhalation valves 654 close, and the nasal exhalation valve 656 and the oral exhalation valve 664 open. The exhaled air enters the mouth aperture 630 and exits through the oral exhalation valve 664. When exhaling through the mouth, under the influence of positive relative pressure, the nasal exhalation valve 656 closes and the oral exhalation valve 664 opens, thereby permitting the exhaled air to exit through the oral exhalation valve 664.

After each use or a plurality of uses, the respirator 600 can be disassembled, washed, and filled with a clean liquid medium for future use.

In some embodiments, instead of a liquid medium, a granular substance or a granular mixture, for example activated carbon, can be used as a filter material.

In some embodiments, for example, at sub-zero ambient temperatures, standard filter cartridges can be used in the half mask of the same design. FIG. 6G shows an example of an industrial respirator with a filter cartridge, which is a standard filter made of corrugated material.

In order to reduce the cost of operation and user convenience, filter elements for a respirator can be assembled from rolled filter materials to form a roll filter. In some embodiments, the filter can be a roll filter, where a filter element is rolled into a three-dimensional structure. For example, the filter elements can be located horizontally, and not vertically, as shown in FIGS. 7A-7C. In FIG. 7A, one inhalation filter is disposed on each side of the nose. As shown in FIGS. 7B-7C, in contrast to standard filter use, the air does not move across the filtering material, but moves along the filtering material. In this way, the filtration properties (e.g., thinness of filtration and dust capacity) are improved.

In some embodiments, when it is necessary to filter large aerosol particles that have high adhesion (e.g., particles of saliva, sputum), droplet separators can be used to clean the air by separation, as shown in FIGS. 8A-8C. As shown in FIG. 8C, the droplet separator comprises blocking structures on the air-flow pathway which permit the removal of large aerosol particles.

In some embodiments, the filter is configured to include a mesh. The mesh includes a plurality of cells. As the inhaled or exhaled air flows though the cells, particles are removed from the inhaled or exhaled air. The size of the cells determines the size of particles that the filter can remove from the air.

In some embodiments, the filter (e.g., an inhalation filter or an exhalation filter) can be a corrugated filter. The area of filter material is variable, e.g., from about one cm² to about 10, 000 cm². The filter material can be of any type, depending of the filtration goal. For example, in order to filter aerosol particles, micro-fiberglass material or meltblown material can be used. To filter hazardous gases, activated charcoal can be used. To filter humid exhaled air we a Teflon-based membrane can be used, which can maintain its filtration properties when it is moisturized or wet.

FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of a respirator 1100 where inhalation can be done through the nose or mouth, each through a separate valve, and exhalation can also be done through the nose or mouth, each through a separate valve.

The respirator 1100 comprises: (a) a nasal aperture 1120, (b) a nasal inhalation valve 1122, (c) a nasal fluid reservoir 1124, (d) a nasal exhalation valve 1126, (e) a mouth aperture 1130, (f) an oral inhalation valve 1132, (g) an oral fluid reservoir 1134, (h) an oral exhalation valve 1136, (i) a nasal inhalation channel 1150 a and an oral inhalation channel 1150 b, (j) a nasal inhalation inlet 1152 a and an oral inhalation inlet 1152 b, (k) a nasal exhalation channel 1160 a and an oral exhalation channel 1160 b, and (l) a nasal exhalation outlet 1162 a and an oral exhalation outlet 1162 b.

The nasal aperture 1120 is configured to be disposed about a pair of nostrils of a user. The mouth aperture 1130 is configured to be disposed about a mouth of the user when the nasal aperture 1120 is disposed about the nostrils of the user. The respirator 1100 can further comprise an obturator (not shown) disposed on the circumferences of the nasal aperture 1120 and the mouth aperture 1130. The obturator is configured to form a seal around the nostrils and the mouth so that fluidic communication between (a) the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 and (b) the oral inhalation channel 1150 a and the oral exhalation channel 1160 a is prevented unless the nasal inhalation valve 1122 or the nasal exhalation valve 1126 is in an open configuration. Similarly, the obturator is configured to form a seal around the nostrils and the mouth so that fluidic communication between (a) the oral fluid reservoir 1134 and (b) the oral inhalation channel 1150 b and the oral exhalation channel 1160 b is prevented unless the oral inhalation valve 1132 or the oral exhalation valve 1136 is in an open configuration.

The respirator 1100 can optionally comprise a septum 1140 disposed between the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 and the oral fluid reservoir 1134. The septum 1140 is configured to prevent fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 and the oral fluid reservoir 1134. The nasal fluid reservoir 1124 is configured to be in fluidic communication with the pair of nostrils. The oral fluid reservoir 1134 is configured to be in fluidic communication with the mouth of the user. In some embodiments, the septum 1140 can include an obturator configured to form a seal on the face of the user to prevent fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 and the oral fluid reservoir 1134.

The nasal inhalation valve 1122 is disposed between the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 and the nasal inhalation channel 1150 a that is in fluidic communication with the nasal inhalation inlet 1152 a. The nasal inhalation valve 1122 is configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 is in fluidic communication with the nasal inhalation channel 1150 a, and by extension, the nasal inhalation inlet 1152 a. In the closed configuration, fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 and the nasal inhalation channel 1150 a, and by extension, the nasal inhalation inlet 1152 a, is prevented. The nasal inhalation valve 1122 is configured to assume its open configuration in response to nasal inhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to nasal exhalation by the user, as described in more detail below.

The nasal exhalation valve 1126 is disposed between the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 and the nasal exhalation channel 1160 a that is in fluidic communication with the nasal exhalation outlet 1162 a. The nasal exhalation valve 1126 is configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 is in fluidic communication with the nasal exhalation channel 1160 a, and by extension the nasal exhalation outlet 1162 a. In the closed configuration, fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 and the nasal exhalation channel 1160 a, and by extension, the nasal exhalation outlet 1162 a, is prevented. The nasal exhalation valve 1126 is configured to assume its open configuration in response to nasal exhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to nasal inhalation by the user.

The oral inhalation valve 1132 is disposed between the oral fluid reservoir 1134 and the oral inhalation channel 1150 b that is in fluidic communication with the oral inhalation inlet 1152 b. The oral inhalation valve 1132 is configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the oral fluid reservoir 1134 is in fluidic communication with the oral inhalation channel 1150 b, and by extension, the oral inhalation inlet 1152 b. In the closed configuration, fluidic communication between the oral fluid reservoir 1134 and the oral inhalation channel 1150 b, and by extension, the oral inhalation inlet 1152 b, is prevented. The oral inhalation valve 1132 is configured to assume its open configuration in response to oral inhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to oral exhalation by the user.

The oral exhalation valve 1136 is disposed between the oral fluid reservoir 1134 and the oral exhalation channel 1160 b that is in fluidic communication with the oral exhalation outlet 1162 b. The oral exhalation valve 1136 is configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the oral fluid reservoir 1134 is in fluidic communication with the oral exhalation channel 1160 b, and by extension, the oral exhalation outlet 1162 b. In the closed configuration, fluidic communication between the oral fluid reservoir 1134 and the oral exhalation channel 1160 b, and by extension, the oral exhalation outlet 1162, is prevented. The oral exhalation valve 1136 is configured to assume its open configuration in response to oral exhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to oral inhalation by the user.

In some implementations, the respirator 1100 further comprises an nasal inhalation filter 1170 a disposed between (1) the nasal inhalation inlet 1152 a and (2) the nasal inhalation valve 1122, and/or an oral inhalation filter 1170 b disposed between (1) the oral inhalation inlet 1152 b and (2) the oral inhalation valve 1132. In some implementations, the nasal inhalation filter 1170 a is disposed within the nasal inhalation channel 1150 a. In some implementations, the nasal inhalation filter 1170 a is disposed at a distal end of the nasal inhalation channel 1150 a. In some implementations, the oral inhalation filter 1170 b is disposed within the oral inhalation channel 1150 b. In some implementations, the oral inhalation filter 1170 b is disposed at a distal end of the oral inhalation channel 1150 b. The inhalation filter(s) 1170 a/b are configured to filter the air entering the inhalation inlet(s) 1152 a/b (e.g., to remove pathogens, particulates, or otherwise anything undesirable to the user).

The respirator 1100 can optionally comprise a nasal exhalation filter 1174 a disposed between (1) the nasal exhalation outlet 1162 a and (2) the nasal exhalation valve 1126, and/or an oral exhalation filter 1174 b disposed between (1) the oral exhalation outlet 1162 b and (2) the oral exhalation valve 1136. In some implementations, the nasal exhalation filter 1174 a is disposed within the nasal exhalation channel 1160 a. In some implementations, the nasal exhalation filter 1174 a is disposed at a distal end of the nasal exhalation channel 1160 a. In some implementations, the oral exhalation filter 1174 b is disposed within the oral exhalation channel 1160 b. In some implementations, the oral exhalation filter 1174 b is disposed at a distal end of the oral exhalation channel 1160 b. The exhalation filter(s) 1174 a/b are configured to filter the air exiting the nasal exhalation valve 1126 and/or the oral exhalation valve 1136 (e.g., to remove pathogens, particulates, or otherwise anything undesirable to the environment around the user).

The inhalation filter(s) 1170 a/b and exhalation filter(s) 1174 a/b can operate accordingly a variety of filtering mechanisms. In some implementations, the inhalation filter(s) 1170 a/b or the exhalation filter(s) 1174 a/b are configured to include a liquid medium. In some implementations, the liquid medium is water or an antiseptic solution. Filtration can be achieved through a multi-stage process using various fluid properties. For example, large particles (e.g., dust, mucus, or saliva) can be removed by creating a vortex air that flows in the volume of the liquid, while finer filtering can be achieved through bubbling process when the air stream passes through a layer of unstable foam. In some implementations, the liquid medium can be replaced with a granular substance or a granular mixture, for example, activated carbon. In some implementations, the inhalation filter(s) 1170 a/b or the exhalation filter(s) 1174 a/b are configured to include a roll filter. In some implementations, the inhalation filter(s) 1170 a/b or the exhalation filter(s) 1174 a/b are configured to include a mesh. The inhalation filter(s) 1170 a/b or the exhalation filter(s) 1174 a/b can be positioned horizontally or vertically, or somewhere therebetween.

In some implementations, the nasal aperture 1120 and the mouth aperture 1130 are defined by an aperture housing 1110; the nasal inhalation channel 1150 a and the oral inhalation channel 1150 b, and the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 and the oral fluid reservoir 1134, can be connected to each other by the aperture housing 1110. Further, in some such implementations, the nasal inhalation valve 1122, the nasal exhalation valve 1126, the oral inhalation valve 1132, and/or the oral exhalation valve 1136, are disposed within the aperture housing 1110, as shown optionally in broken lines in FIG. 11 .

In some implementations, the respirator 1100 further comprises a septal valve 1142 disposed within the septum 1140 (and defined by or disposed within the aperture housing 1110, when present) and configured to transition between an open configuration and a closed configuration. In the open configuration, the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 is in fluidic communication with the oral fluid reservoir 1134. In the closed configuration, fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 and the oral fluid reservoir 1134 is prevented. The septal valve 1142 is configured to assume its open configuration in response to oral inhalation or nasal exhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to oral exhalation or nasal inhalation by the user. In some implementations, the septum 1140 extends from one end of the aperture housing 1110 (when present) to another (e.g., opposite) end of the aperture housing 1110 to fluidically isolate the nasal fluid reservoir from the oral fluid reservoir, with fluid communication therebetween available through the septal valve 1142, as described above.

While FIG. 11 only shows one septum, some implementations of the respirator 1100 can have two, three, four, or more septa. While FIG. 11 only shows one optional septal valve, some implementations of the respirator 1100 can have two, three, four, or more septal valves. While FIG. 11 only shows one nasal inhalation valve, some implementations of the respirator 1100 can have two, three, four, or more nasal inhalation valves. While FIG. 11 only shows one nasal exhalation valve, some implementations of the respirator 1100 can have two, three, four, or more nasal exhalation valves. While FIG. 11 only shows one oral inhalation valve, some implementations of the respirator 1100 can have two, three, four, or more oral inhalation valves. While FIG. 11 only shows one oral exhalation valve, some implementations of the respirator 1100 can have two, three, four, or more oral exhalation valves.

Generally, the operating principle of the respirator 1100 can be described as follows. When inhaling through the nose or mouth, under the influence of negative relative pressure, the nasal inhalation valve 1122 or the oral inhalation valve 1132 opens, and air enters from the nasal inhalation channel 1150 a or the oral inhalation channel 1150 b into the nasal fluid reservoir 1124 or the oral fluid reservoir 1134, respectively. The air previously passes through optional inhalation filter(s) 1170 a/b from the space external to the respirator 1100. When the user exhales through the nose or mouth, under the influence of positive relative pressure, the nasal inhalation valve 1122 or the oral inhalation valve 1132 is closed, and the nasal exhalation valve 1126 or the oral exhalation valve 1136 opens, and air enters the nasal exhalation channel 1160 a or the oral exhalation channel 1160 b, respectively. The exhaled air exits the respirator 1100 through the outlets 1162 a/b and optionally after passing through an exhalation filter(s) 1174 a/b.

The outer layer of the housing is transparent, opaque, or a combination thereof (e.g., a portion of the outer layer facing the user's mouth may be transparent to aid in communication between the user and others, while other portions of the outer layer may be less transparent or opaque). The outer layer of the housing can be made of any suitable material, e.g., plastic, silicone, or the like.

The housing can be made, partially or whole, from breathable (filtering) material. In some implementations, the respirator 1100 is for single use. For example, the whole housing can be made of a spunbond meltblown spunbond (SMS) material.

In some implementations, the respirator 1100 is reusable. For example, a portion of the housing (e.g., the obturator) can be made of silicone and/or thermoplastic elastomer; another portion of the housing can be made of ABS plastic, or polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic; and valves can be made of silicone or rubber.

In some implementations, only the obturator and the coupling member (e.g., a strap) are configured to be in contact with the skin when the user wears the respirator 1100. In some implementations where additional components are in contact with the skin, these additional components can be made of an air permeable material.

Regardless of whether the respirator 1100 is for single use or reusable, in some implementations separate components are manufactured separately and then assembled into the respirator 1100.

FIGS. 12A-12B show front and rear views of a respirator 1200 that comprises the features of the respirator 1100 shown in FIG. 11 , according to an embodiment. As shown in FIGS. 12A-12B, the respirator 1200 comprises an aperture housing 1210, a nasal aperture 1220, a mouth aperture 1230, a septum 1240, a nasal inhalation channel 1250 a, an oral inhalation channel 1250 b, a nasal fluid reservoir 1224, an oral fluid reservoir 1234, a nasal exhalation channel 1260 a, an oral exhalation channel 1260 b, a nasal inhalation valve 1222, a nasal exhalation valve 1226, an oral inhalation valve 1232, an oral exhalation valve 1236, a nasal inhalation filter 1270 a, a nasal exhalation filter 1274 a, an oral inhalation filter 1270 b, an oral exhalation filter 1274 b, and two septal valves 1242 a/b. Note that the nasal inhalation filter 1270 a, the nasal exhalation filter 1274 a, the oral inhalation filter 1270 b, and the oral exhalation filter 1274 b are installed in filter blocks.

The aperture housing 1210 defines the nasal aperture 1220 and the mouth aperture 1230. Each of the nasal inhalation channel 1250 a, oral inhalation channel 1250 b, nasal exhalation channel 1260 a, and the oral exhalation channel 1260 b, has its own housing defining a volume. Those four channels are interconnected by the aperture housing 1210.

The nasal inhalation valve 1222 and the nasal exhalation valve 1226 are configured to be disposed about the nose such that there is one nasal valve on each side of the nose. The septal valves 1242 a/b are configured to be disposed below the nostrils such that there is one septum valve below each nostril. The oral inhalation valve 1232 and the oral exhalation valve 1236 are disposed about the mouth such that there is one oral valve on each side of the mouth.

In addition to FIGS. 5G, 6E, and 6F, embodiments of hydro-respirators are shown in FIGS. 14A-14B and FIGS. 15A-15B. As used herein, the term “hydro-respirator” refers to a respirator that uses a liquid medium for filtering inhaled air, exhaled air, or a combination thereof.

In FIG. 14A, a hydro-respirator 1400 comprises an inhalation hydrofilter 1482 a, an inhalation or exhalation hydrofilter 1482 b, an aperture housing 1410, and an exhalation valve 1484. FIG. 14B shows an obturator 1428 that is configured to form a seal around the nostrils and mouth of a user. As used herein, the term “hydrofilter” refers to a filter that uses a liquid medium for filtration. In some embodiments, the liquid medium is water. In some embodiments, the liquid medium is an antiseptic solution.

In FIG. 15A, a hydro-respirator 1500 comprises an inhalation hydrofilter 1582 a, an inhalation or exhalation hydrofilter 1582 b, an aperture housing 1510, and an exhalation valve 1584. FIG. 15B shows an obturator 1528 that is configured to form a seal around the nostrils and mouth of a user.

Different filters are described in conjunction with the drawings. It should not be construed that those filters can only be used in those respirators depicted in the drawings. Rather the filters can be used in any one of the respirators described throughout the present application.

Various configurations of filters, filter housings, inlets and outlets, are described in conjunction with the drawings. It should be understood that in any of the embodiments described herein, the filters can be exposed to the environment, and those filters can define the inlet and outlets, rather than the inlets and outlets being defined by a separate housing or filter housing.

Similarly, different head mounts are described in conjunction with the drawings. It should not be construed that those head mounts can only be used in those respirators depicted in the drawings. Rather the head mounts can be used in any one of the respirators described throughout the present application.

In some implementations, the valve (e.g., an inhalation valve, an exhalation valve, or a septal valve) described throughout the present application is a one-way valve. The one-way valve thus permits the transition from an open configuration to a closed configuration, and vice versa. The one-way valve can utilize any known designs, including but not limited to, umbrella, duckbill, mushroom, flap, Archimedes' screw, and membrane. In some implementations, the one-way valve is an umbrella valve, e.g., having an opening pressure of about two to about five pascals. FIGS. 13A-13B show an umbrella one-way valve, where the valve is closed (FIG. 13A) and open (FIG. 13B).

While various inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto; inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

Also, various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more methods, of which an example has been provided. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as sequential acts in illustrative embodiments.

All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and/or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.”

The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of” “only one of” or “exactly one of” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.

The terms “substantially,” “approximately,” and “about” used throughout this Specification and the claims generally mean plus or minus 10% of the value stated, e.g., about 100 would include 90 to 110.

In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively, as set forth in the United States Patent Office Manual of Patent Examining Procedures, Section 2111.03. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A respirator, comprising: a mouth aperture configured to be disposed about a mouth of a user; a nasal aperture configured to be disposed about a pair of nostrils of the user when the mouth aperture is disposed about the mouth of the user; a nasal fluid reservoir configured to be in fluidic communication with the pair of nostrils; an oral fluid reservoir configured to be in fluidic communication with the mouth of the user; an inhalation channel being in fluidic communication with the nasal fluid reservoir and the oral fluid reservoir; wherein a nasal inhalation valve disposed between the nasal fluid reservoir and the inhalation channel that is in fluidic communication with an inhalation inlet, and configured to transition between an open configuration in which the nasal fluid reservoir is in fluidic communication with the inhalation channel, and a closed configuration in which fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir and the inhalation channel is prevented; an oral inhalation valve disposed between the oral fluid reservoir and the inhalation channel, and configured to transition between an open configuration in which the oral fluid reservoir is in fluidic communication with the inhalation channel, and a closed configuration in which fluidic communication between the oral fluid reservoir and the inhalation channel is prevented, wherein the inhalation channel is fluidly continuous between the inhalation inlet, the nasal inhalation valve, and the oral inhalation valve such that an entire volume inside the inhalation channel is fluidly communicative; an exhalation channel being in fluidic communication with the nasal fluid reservoir and the oral fluid reservoir; a nasal exhalation valve disposed between the nasal fluid reservoir and the exhalation channel that is in fluidic communication with an exhalation outlet, and configured to transition between an open configuration in which the nasal fluid reservoir is in fluidic communication with the exhalation channel, and a closed configuration in which fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir and the exhalation channel is prevented; an oral exhalation valve disposed between the oral fluid reservoir and the exhalation channel, and configured to transition between an open configuration in which the oral fluid reservoir is in fluidic communication with the exhalation channel, and a closed configuration in which fluidic communication between the oral fluid reservoir and the exhalation channel is prevented, wherein the exhalation channel is fluidly continuous between the exhalation outlet, the nasal exhalation valve, and the oral exhalation valve such that an entire volume inside the exhalation channel is fluidly communicative; and wherein: the nasal inhalation valve being configured to assume its open configuration in response to nasal inhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to nasal exhalation by the user, the nasal exhalation valve being configured to assume its open configuration in response to nasal exhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to nasal inhalation by the user, the oral inhalation valve being configured to assume its open configuration in response to oral inhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to oral inhalation by the user, the oral exhalation valve being configured to assume its open configuration in response to oral exhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to oral inhalation by the user.
 2. The respirator of claim 1, further comprising a housing defining an inner layer and an outer layer, the inner layer defining the nasal aperture and the mouth aperture.
 3. The respirator of claim 1, further comprising a septum disposed between the nasal fluid reservoir and the oral fluid reservoir.
 4. The respirator of claim 3, further comprising: a septal inhalation valve disposed within the septum and configured to transition between an open configuration in which the nasal fluid reservoir is in fluidic communication with the oral fluid reservoir, and a closed configuration in which fluidic communication between the nasal fluid reservoir and the oral fluid reservoir is prevented, the septal inhalation valve being configured to assume its open configuration in response to oral inhalation or nasal exhalation by the user, and its closed configuration in response to oral exhalation or nasal inhalation by the user.
 5. The respirator of claim 1, further comprising: an inhalation filter disposed within or at a distal end of the inhalation channel.
 6. The respirator of claim 1, further comprising: an exhalation filter disposed within or at a distal end of the exhalation channel.
 7. The respirator of claim 1, wherein both the inlet and the outlet are configured to be disposed posterior to a pair of ears of the user when the mouth aperture is disposed about the mouth of the user and the nasal aperture is disposed about the pair of nostrils.
 8. The respirator of claim 1, wherein the inhalation channel is configured to extend about a first side of the user's head, and the exhalation channel is configured to extend about as second side, opposite the first side, of the user's head.
 9. The respirator of claim 1, wherein the entire volume inside the inhalation channel is undivided.
 10. The respirator of claim 1, wherein the entire volume inside the exhalation channel is undivided. 